5 reasons to try reflexology

Looking to try something new? Here are 5 reasons to try reflexology

The ancient practice of reflexology dates back to 4,000 BC in China. The non-intrusive, holistic treatment is often used to effectively help stress, although its benefits are widespread. ‘Reflexology is the application of pressure to particular points and areas on the feet or hands,’ explains Monique Hart, founder of The Hart Spa. ‘Reflexologists believe that different areas of the feet and hands represent different parts of the body, and that working on these areas has a beneficial effect on the organs and person’s general health. For example, reflexology holds a specific spot in the arch of the foot that is the bladder point. When it is worked on using thumbs or fingers to apply appropriate pressure to this area, if affects the bladder functioning.’ Reflexologists do not claim to /cure/ any illnesses, but a treatment that is still as widely used as it was thousands of years ago has to be doing something right. Still not sold? Here are 5 reasons to try reflexology.

For relaxation

Feeling stressed? Whether it’s pressures from work or personal problems, reflexology might hold the answers. ‘In times of high stress, reflexology can help return the body to a state of balance,’ explain the experts at Sovereign Health Care. ‘So if you are feeling under pressure and unable to cope with your stress levels, it could be worth giving it a try.’ Indeed in the 1930s, Dr William Fitzgerald and later, Eunise Dingham, found this to be true. ‘During their studies, reflexology was scientifically-proven to help with deeper breathing, thus aiding relaxation, circulation, sense of increased energy and vitality and a general overall lifted feeling of wellbeing,’ explains Monique.

For better sleep

Another common reason for receiving reflexology is due to poor sleep. ‘It’s a great rebalancing treatment for stress and insomnia,’ states Monique. ‘Reflexology is a centuries old Chinese technique of stimulating the feet to assist sleep.’ According to Monique, you can even try giving this one a go yourself. ‘Relax the brain by pressing on the big toe of each foot and pinch both toes with the thumb and index finger for 10 seconds,’ she explains. Try relaxing the neck by pressing on the base of the big toe while making small circles or relax the back by pressing from the big toe down to the heel. ‘Pressing here can help your body ‘let go’ to help you to sleep,’ adds Monique.

 For inducing labour

‘Reflexology is scientifically-proven to induce labour for overdue clients,’ maintains Monique. ‘The reflexologist applies pressure to points such as the pituitary gland, which helps to induce uterine contractions. Therefore the reflexologist is there to bring about equilibrium and relaxation in the body to allow the mother’s body to set itself into labour.’ It’s also widely believed that using acupressure techniques can also be used to ease the pain of childbirth.

For general wellbeing

‘Working over specific areas during reflexology will help the body achieve a sense of balance and restore general wellbeing,’ explains Monique. Indeed, the idea that you’re helping the body to help itself is a large aspect of reflexology. ‘Therapy is tailored to each individual and the theory is that it helps the body restore itself in a natural way,’ say Sovereign Health Care. ‘The most common uses for this therapy include soothing tired feet, improving circulation, helping back pain and easing tension headaches.’

For discovering a problem

‘The feet are a map of the body, therefore reflexology allows you to detect any problem areas,’ explains Monique. Using pressure points on the feet, reflexologists are able to get to the root of the problem quickly and painlessly. Some people even undergo reflexology without realising anything is necessarily ‘wrong’, yet come away feeling refreshed, restored and generally much better than before treatment.